Deaths linked to supplements raise concern

Products containing red yeast rice spark fears as probe gets underway in Japan

A health crisis in Japan involving dietary supplements that contain red yeast rice has sparked growing concerns among consumers at home and abroad.

Kobayashi Pharmaceutical has reported five deaths and more than 150 hospitalizations linked to such products. Individuals affected reportedly experienced kidney problems and other health issues. Additionally, nearly 700 others have either sought medical attention for health concerns or expressed a desire to do so.

Furthermore, a system for reporting unexpected reactions to health food, tablets and capsules in Taiwan has received 11 reports related to Kobayashi's red yeast rice products, the region's "central news agency" reported on Monday, citing figures from the food and drug administration.